There was big news last week but you probably missed it.  With all the focus and controversy about the Time breastfeeding cover, there was little attention to the announcement about an issue that we can all agree on.

In honor of Mother’s Day this Sunday, here’s a simple tool for you to learn more about…you! So many moms put themselves last as they care for all within their care and reach. Unfortunately, this leaves many moms neglecting their own self-care. What happens next? Many begin to feel unfit, overweight, overwhelmed, unfulfilled and unhappy. They become depleted, exhausted and simply don’t have the time, motivation and energy they need to look, feel and live their best.

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

In recent weeks, I have made some significant, life-altering decisions. Namely, I am leaving my job, one that has brought me tremendous joy, has allowed me to impact the lives of others and within an environment where I work with professional colleagues that care about me as a person and not just an employee. So, I am leaving this “once upon a time dream” job …and I have no idea what comes next.

Often times, as a working mom surrounded by strong, professional women, I forget that we are not immortal. We have weaknesses and fears, failures and setbacks. So many of us bounce back from them but, many of us have to jump over a series of serious hurdles before we can bounce back... One of the best ways for women to overcome challenges and face them head on is to embrace the strong network of female friends that we have. Lean on your sister, biological or adopted, and let her lean on you.

Last week I ended one of the longest lasting relationships of my life. My family is in turmoil. My stomach is in knots. I feel like my world has been turned upside down. I struggle to fall asleep each night, and wake up every morning with a growing sense that nothing will ever be the same ever again.

I have numerous statements running through my head that I believe to be true. They all start with some version of "I'm not the kind of mom who.."

• Spends hours brushing her daughter's hair or worrying about how she looks
• Has her child scheduled in more than one after school activity at a time
• Complains to the teacher if she thinks something isn't fair

We know dust and dirt can buildup and trigger asthma an allergies, so at Merry Maids, we take dust removal seriously. For removing dust, dirt and pet hairs while cleaning, we have not found anything better than microfiber cloths. These cloths capture dust and dirt rather than move it around. They also last longer than traditional cleaning cloths and take less energy to wash and dry.

Microfiber cloths clean any surface – from countertops to floors, walls to ceiling fans to cars. We prefer to use them dry so they remove dirt, but at times we dampen them with vinegar to stovetops.

After a full day of work and coming home to a topsy-turvy family, there is little time for Mom. Make time for yourself, because a mom who works hard all day deserves a break. To rejuvenate, relax and sometimes to regain your sanity.

Do a quick power clean after the children are asleep. Set a timer for fifteen minutes. In that time, put the toys away and organize the living room. When the timer goes off, plop onto the couch and enjoy a clean, quiet home.